Persons Urged to Cooperate at State of Public Emergency Checkpoints

The joint security team, which is operating in the State of Public Emergency (SOPE) in the St. Catherine North Police Division, is imploring members of the public to cooperate with the soldiers and police personnel at the various checkpoints.

Speaking with JIS News at a recent stakeholders meeting in Spanish Town, Acting Head of the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) Corporate Communications Unit (CCU), Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Dahlia Garrick, outlined the procedures for civilians at the SOPE checkpoints.

“When you are approaching the checkpoint, check your speed, roll down your windows, turn on your roof light (at night) and be compliant when asked questions,” she informed.

She said the police and the soldiers will do a quick scan to assess the situation, and “if you are required for a further search, more than just an observation, you are being urged to comply with the instructions given”.

ASP Garrick said it is important to answer the questions promptly and comply with any instruction given by a member of the security forces, as that will help the process to go smoothly.

She further instructed that persons should have a valid form of identification in their possession, because that will also help to speed up the process.

ASP Garrick appealed for understanding as the security forces carry out their work, noting that everyone has a part to play in creating and maintaining safer communities. “All of this is intended to ensure the safety of the communities” she added.

ASP Garrick explained that in a SOPE, it is the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) that takes the lead role.

She noted that the joint team of JDF and Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) members have been working well together. “We know the objective of this operation, and the collaboration with the JDF has been tremendous,” she said.

“We hold our members accountable to the highest level of professionalism, and, so far, the feedback has been that the security forces have operated with the highest level of courtesy and respect,” she added.

Since the imposition of the SOPE in the St. Catherine North Division on March 18, 1,515 persons have been processed. Of that number, 1,431 have been released, 17 detained and 67 arrested. Of those arrested, 19 remain in custody and 48 have been released on bail.